NZ swimmers step into the Panpacs lion’s den
New Zealand swimmers step into the lion’s den against many of the world’s best when the Pan Pacific Championships begin in Canada tomorrow.
The Kiwi contingent are using the crack meet to kick-start their preparations towards the world championships next March. With many swimmers taking a lengthy break after the Commonwealth Games, head coach Jan Cameron is not expecting record-breaking performances from the squad.
The meet will provide some vital international racing and a clear litmus test as they plan towards Melbourne and on to Beijing as they will come up against the world’s best including Americans Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin.
The New Zealanders have prepared well at Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, and enjoyed the hospitality from the small community.
“It was a beautiful spot and we spent time interacting with the local community and local swimmers,” head coach Jan Cameron said.
“The facilities were excellent. The squad trained well and we also did some light resistance and strength work with our strength coach Brad Conza. Keeping the bodies on track is an essential part of our approach.”
While the Australians have spelled some of their stars including Leisel Jones and Lisbeth Lenton, Cameron is under no illusions about the level of competition this week in Victoria.
“The competition will be fierce with the recently qualified US team here at full strength along with the Australians, Canadians and Japanese.
“We are looking for some good swims. This racing opportunity is invaluable for us to learn what must be done as we prepare for the world championships next March on our way to Beijing.”
First up will be Helen Norfolk, an in-form Lauren Boyle and Alison Fitch in the 200m freestyle where they will come up against top American Katie Hoff and Australia’s Linda McKenzie.
Eight of the New Zealand men will compete in the heats of the 200m freestyle while Hannah McLean, Melissa Ingram and Liz Coster are in the heats of the 100m backstroke against world champion and record-holder Coughlin.
Cameron Gibson, Dean Kent and John Zulch will also contest the heats of the 100m backstroke where the top qualifier is American Aaron Perisol, while Manchester gold medalist Moss Burmester and Andrew McMillan contest the heats of the 200m butterfly where the top seed is world record holder Phelps.
Bryn Murphy completes the Kiwi programme on the first morning in the timed final of the 800m freestyle.
The meet continues until Monday.
Event Coverage:
Coverage of the heats will be sent by 8am and the finals wrap and results by 5pm NZ time.
